On October 22, Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts issued a statement firmly rejecting allegations by the Thai military that Cambodia uses ancient temples for military purposes. It also protested the Thai troops’ continued presence at archaeological sites along the Cambodian border and their unilateral operations there. The statement said that ancient temples and archaeological sites are primarily used for religious activities, cultural heritage protection, scientific research, education and tourism, and are not military bases. Cambodia believes the Thai allegations lack factual basis and stressed that it will continue protecting cultural heritage in accordance with international conventions. Cambodia also expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Thai troops’ presence at and around ancient temples and nearby archaeological sites, as well as their unauthorized clearance of mines, infrastructure construction, electricity supply and restoration work. It said these actions violate Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and could impede a peaceful resolution of border issues. The statement also mentioned that armed clashes in July and December 2025 damaged Prasat Preah Vihear Temple and several cultural heritage sites in Cambodia. Cambodia urged all parties to exercise restraint, comply with international conventions and hold those responsible for the destruction accountable. Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts urged Thailand to stop making accusations and taking unilateral actions, resolve disputes through established mechanisms such as the Cambodia-Thailand Joint Commission for Demarcation of the Land Boundary, and return the ancient artifacts previously taken from Prasat Khnar. Cambodia stressed that cultural heritage is the common heritage of all humanity, should not be used as a tool for political disputes or military confrontation, and must be properly protected and restored.
